Brenda Joyce Irby Haverkampf, age 79, stepped peacefully into the arms of her Savior on February 2, 2026. A woman of radiant faith, infectious laughter, and fierce devotion, Brenda left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Legacy of Family and Faith

Brenda was born on February 11, 1946, and the 8th of 14 children to Willie and Kate Irby. Growing up in a large, bustling household shaped her into the pillar of strength and love she became. She was a true prayer warrior; those who knew her felt the power of her intercession. She didn't just speak about her faith—she shone the light of Jesus everywhere she went, embodying grace and compassion in every interaction.  She was a truly humble servant of The Lord who didn't realize the full impact she had on others.

A Fun-Loving Spirit

If Brenda was in the room, laughter wouldn't be far behind. She was famously fun-loving and never passed up an opportunity to playfully scare her grandchildren. Her home was filled with joy and an open-door policy for anyone needing a hug or a prayer.

She was her family's biggest cheerleader, attending every game, performance, and milestone possible. To Brenda, her family was her greatest mission field and her greatest pride.

Affectionately known as MiMi to her grandchildren, Brenda found joy in cooking for her family. No holiday was complete without her signature chicken and dressing, a dish her loved ones anticipated every year.

Family Matriarch

Brenda was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Rick Haverkampf; her parents, Willie and Kate Irby; her sisters, Willie Jean Smith, Maxine Smith, Becky Mayhall, and Linda Collum; and her brothers, Noel, Ronnie, Kenny, and Danny Irby.

Her legacy of love lives on through her devoted family:

Her Daughters: Angela Griffis (Mike), Penny Bomar (Greg), and Marsha Watson (Tony).
Her Stepsons: Scott Haverkampf (Veronica) and Dale Haverkampf (Kim).
Her 10 Adoring Grandchildren: Brandon Griffis, Laura Gleason (Stephen), Hannah Marshall (Anthony), Micah Bomar (Kaitlin), Drew Watson, Zander Griffis, Cole Watson, Lake Watson, Elizabeth Fondren (Bradley), and Jessie Sumner (Andrew).
Her 10 Great-Grandchildren, who were the light of her later years.
Her 5 siblings: Cherry Berthelot, Donna Whitney, Terry Irby, Reba Causey, and Darlene Smith (John)
Numerous nieces and nephews, church family and friends, who loved her dearly.
Brenda loved fiercely, and while our hearts are heavy, we rejoice knowing she is finally home and is worshipping at the feet of Jesus.

The family would also like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Ryan Strebeck, MD, a physician from Cornerstone Clinic for Women who went above and beyond in his care of her while in the hospital.

Celebration of Life Service will be held at Eagle Point Church of God in Little Rock, AR, February 11, 2026 (Her 80th birthday) at 10 am with visitation at 9 am.  The burial will be at noon at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery where she will be buried with her husband, Rick.

Pallbearers will be her grandsons, Brandon, Micah, Drew, Zander, Cole, and Lake.  Honorary pallbearers will be Anthony Marshall and Stephen Gleason.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.  Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.  2 Timothy 4:7-8 NKJV